FLR Visa UK: Requirements, Application Process and Costs

Private life is a separate basis for remaining in the UK. The rules can apply to people who have established a qualifying private life in the country.

The relevant requirements depend on the individual's circumstances. Simply having lived in the UK for a certain period does not automatically guarantee permission to remain.

What Documents Do You Need?

The evidence required depends on the application.

Typical documents can include:

• Current passport or travel document
• Evidence of current immigration status
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate, where relevant
• Evidence of a genuine relationship
• Children's birth certificates or other relevant records
• Financial documents
• English language evidence, where required
• Proof of address and living arrangements
• Evidence supporting a private life claim
• Previous Home Office correspondence

The key is relevance. Providing dozens of documents does not necessarily make an application stronger if they do not address the requirements.

Your documents should also be consistent. Differences in dates, names, addresses or financial information can create questions that could have been avoided with a careful review.

For another overview of the process, FLR UK Visa: Requirements, Application Process and Extension Guide covers several practical points applicants should consider before applying.

When Should You Apply for an FLR Visa?

Timing is extremely important.

If you are extending your current permission, you should generally submit the application before your existing leave expires. The government confirms that people extending a family visa can apply at any point before their current permission expires.

Leaving the application until the final day can create unnecessary pressure. You may need time to collect evidence, complete the online form, pay the required fee and complete identity or biometric steps.

Before starting your application, check:

• When your current permission expires
• Whether you are eligible to apply from inside the UK
• Which FLR route applies
• Whether you meet the requirements
• Whether a fee waiver could apply
• What evidence you need

How Much Does an FLR Visa Cost?

There is no single fee that applies to every FLR application.

For many applications made inside the UK, the current standard fee for a family visa extension is £1,407. The Home Office fee table also lists £1,407 for certain other “leave to remain” applications.

You may also have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The amount depends on the type and length of permission being requested.

For example, current family visa guidance lists an IHS of £2,587.50 for an adult staying for two years and six months.

Applicants who cannot afford the application costs may be eligible for a fee waiver in certain circumstances. The government states that fee waivers can apply to some family and private life applicants who cannot afford essential living costs or accommodation.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submitting your application, you may need to prove your identity and provide biometric information. Depending on your circumstances, this can involve using the UK Immigration: ID Check app or attending a biometric appointment.

You may also be asked to provide additional documents if the Home Office needs more information.